The Chairman of the House Committee on Polytechnics and Higher Technical Education, Mr. Fuad Kayode Laguda, has expressed the committee’s commitment to fostering accountability in the administration of federal polytechnics and other higher institutions of technical learning.
Speaking after an oversight meeting in Abuja with five polytechnics from the South East, Mr. Laguda stated the importance of these institutions in driving national development. He emphasized that the committee is taking budget performance evaluations seriously to ensure proper utilisation of allocated resources.
The meeting involved representatives from Federal Polytechnic, Akanu Ibiam; Federal Polytechnic, Nekede; Federal Polytechnic, Ohodo; Federal Polytechnic, Isuochi; and Federal Polytechnic, Oko. Mr. Laguda explained that the institutions had failed to attend an earlier session due to security concerns in the region, including sit-at-home orders.
During the session, the chairman highlighted the need for transparency in the use of funds. He further revealed that certain budget lines presented by the institutions required on-site verification.
Mr. Laguda acknowledged the challenges faced during oversight functions, citing an instance in the North West where military escorts were needed due to an attack along the route. He expressed hope for improved security conditions to facilitate such visits.
Regarding the Southeast institutions, the chairman noted that their absence last week was attributed to security concerns following a sit-at-home order. However, he praised their participation during the rescheduled session and described the oversight as largely successful.
He added that the committee has standard in-house procedures for reviewing reports and incorporating additional information before finalizing the budget. He concluded by affirming the committee’s dedication to ensuring transparency and accountability in higher technical education.
